Federal Register: December 29, 2000 (Volume 65, Number 251)
DOCID: FR Doc 00-31079
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
Treasury Department
CFR Citation: 50 CFR Part 17
RIN ID: RIN 1018-AH08
NOTICE: Part III
DOCUMENT ACTION: Proposed rule and notice of determinations of whether designation of critical habitat is prudent.
SUBJECT CATEGORY:
Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Determinations of Whether Designation of Critical Habitat Is Prudent for 20 Plant Species and the Proposed Designations of Critical Habitat for 32 Plant Species From the Island of Molokai, HI
DATES: We must receive comments from all interested parties by February 27, 2001. Public hearing requests must be received by February 12, 2001.
DOCUMENT SUMMARY:
We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), have reconsidered our findings concerning whether designating critical habitat for 20 federally protected plants from the island of Molokai, some of which may also occur on other Hawaiian Islands, would be prudent. The 20 plants were listed as endangered or threatened species under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act), between 1991 and 1999. At the time each plant was listed, we determined that designation of critical habitat was not prudent because designation would increase the degree of threat to the species and/or would not benefit the plant.
We determine that critical habitat is prudent for 19 of these species (Bidens wiebkei, Brighamia rockii, Canavalia molokaiensis, Clermontia oblongifolia ssp. brevipes, Cyanea dunbarii, Cyanea mannii, Cyanea procera, Hibiscus arnottianus ssp. immaculatus, Lysimachia maxima, Mariscus fauriei, Marsilea villosa, Melicope reflexa, Phyllostegia mannii, Schiedea lydgatei, Schiedea sarmentosa, Silene alexandri, Silene lanceolata, Stenogyne bifida, and Tetramolopium rockii) because the potential benefits of designating critical habitat essential for the conservation of these species outweigh the risks that may result from human activity because of critical habitat designation. We propose that critical habitat designation is not prudent for one species, Pritchardia munroi, because it would likely increase the threat from vandalism or collection of this species on Molokai. This proposed rule also proposes designation of critical habitat for 17 of these 20 species. Critical habitat is not proposed for two species, Lysimachia maxima and Phyllostegia mannii, that are currently found only in areas on Molokai that do not require special management consideration or protection because they are already protected and managed to the benefit of these species. Thus, these areas do not meet the definition of critical habitat.
For one additional species from Molokai, Labordia triflora, we determined that designation of critical habitat was prudent at the time of its listing as an endangered species in 1999. Critical habitat designation for this species is proposed at this time.
In other proposed rules we determined that critical habitat was prudent for 19 species that occur on Molokai as well as on Kauai, Niihau, Maui, Kahoolawe, and/or Lanai. The determinations were included in proposed rules for Kauai and Niihau, published on November 7, 2000, for Maui and Kahoolawe, published on December 18, 2000, or for Lanai, published on December 27, 2000. These species are: Adenophorous periens, Alectryon macrococcus, Centarium sebaeoides, Ctenitis squamigera, Cyanea grimesiana ssp. grimesiana, Diellia erecta, Hedyotis mannii, Hesperomannia arborescens, Ischaemum byrone, Melicope mucronulata, Neraudia sericea, Peucedanum sandwicense, Plantago princeps, Platanthera holochila, Schiedea nuttallii, Sesbania tomentosa, Spermolepis hawaiiensis, Vigna owahuensis, and Zanthoxylum hawaiiense. Critical habitat designations for 14 of the 19 species on Molokai are proposed at this time. Critical habitat is not proposed for five of these species (Adenophorus periens, Hedyotis mannii, Plantago princeps, Plantanthera holochila, and Schiedea nuttallii) that currently are found in areas on Molokai that do not require special management or protection because they are already protected and managed to the benefit of these species. Thus, these areas do not meet the definition of critical habitat.
Critical habitat designations for 32 species within 28 critical habitat units on the Hawaiian island of Molokai are proposed at this time.
We solicit data and comments from the public on all aspects of this proposal, including data on the economic and other impacts of the proposed designations. We may revise this proposal to incorporate or address new information received during the comment period.
SUMMARY:
Department of Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service,
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
Background
We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), have reconsidered
our findings concerning whether designating critical habitat for 20
federally protected plants from the island of Molokai is prudent.
Currently, 15 of these species (Bidens wiebkei, Canavalia molokaiensis,
Clermontia oblongifolia ssp. brevipes, Cyanea dunbarii, Cyanea mannii,
Cyanea procera, Hibiscus arnottianus ssp. immaculatus, Lysimachia
maxima, Melicope reflexa, Pritchardia munroi, Schiedea lydgatei,
Schiedea sarmentosa, Silene alexandri, Stenogyne bifida, and
Tetramolopium rockii) are endemic to the island of Molokai while three
species (Mariscus fauriei, Marsilea villosa, and Silene lanceolata) are
known from Molokai as well as one or more other islands. One species,
Brighamia rockii, was known from Lanai, Maui, and Molokai but currently
is extant only on Molokai. Another species, Phyllostegia mannii, was [[Page 83159]]
known from Maui and Molokai but currently is extant only on Molokai (Table 1).
Prudency determinations for 19 other species (Adenophorous periens, Alectryon macrococcus, Centarium sebaeoides, Ctenitis squamigera, Cyanea grimesiana ssp. grimesiana, Diellia erecta, Hedyotis mannii, Hesperomannia arborescens, Ischaemum byrone, Melicope mucronulata, Neraudia sericea, Peucedanum sandwicense, Plantago princeps, Platanthera holochila, Schiedea nuttallii, Sesbania tomentosa, Spermolepis hawaiiensis, Vigna owahuensis, and Zanthoxylum hawaiiense) which also occur on the islands of Kauai, Maui and/or Lanai were published in proposed rules on November 7, 2000 (Kauai and Niihau, 65 FR 66808), on December 18, 2000 (Maui and Kahoolawe, 65 FR 79192), or on December 27, 2000 (Lanai). Critical habitat designations for 14 of these 19 species on Molokai are proposed at this time. Critical habitat is not proposed for five species (Adenophorous periens, Hedyotis mannii, Plantago princeps, Platanthera holochila, and Schiedea nuttallii) that currently are found only in areas on Molokai that are protected and managed for the benefit of these species.
In addition, for one species in this proposed rule, Labordia
triflora, we determined that designation of critical habitat was
prudent at the time of its listing as an endangered species in 1999.
Critical habitat designation for this species on Molokai is proposed at this time.
Table 1.Summary of Island Distribution of 49 Species on Molokai
Island Distribution
Species N.W. Isles,
Kauai Oahu Molokai Lanai Maui Hawaii Kahoolawe Niihau
Adenophorus periens (pendant C H C R R C ................ kihi fern).
Alectryon macrococcus C C C ......... C ......... ................ (mahoe).
Bidens wiebkei (ko oko olau) ......... ......... C ......... ......... ......... ................
Bonamia menziesii (No common C C H C C C ................ name).
Brighamia rockii (pua ala).. ......... ......... C H H ......... ................
Canavalia molokaiensis ......... ......... C ......... ......... ......... ................ (awikiwiki).
Centaurium sebaeoides C C C C C ......... ................ (awiwi).
Clermontia oblongifolia ssp. ......... ......... C ......... ......... ......... ................ brevipes (oha wai).
Ctenitis squamigera (pauoa). H C C C C H ................
Cyanea dunbarii (haha)...... ......... ......... C ......... ......... ......... ................
Cyanea grimesiana ssp. ......... C C C C ......... ................ grimesiana (haha).
Cyanea mannii (haha)........ ......... ......... C ......... ......... ......... ................
Cyanea procera (haha)....... ......... ......... C ......... ......... ......... ................
Cyperus trachysanthos (pu C C H H ......... ......... Ni (C) ukaa).
Diellia erecta (No common H H C H C C ................ name).
Eugenia Koolauensis (nioi).. ......... C H ......... ......... ......... ................
Flueggea neowawraea C C H ......... C C ................ (mehamehame).
Hedyotis mannii (pilo)...... ......... ......... C C C ......... ................
Hesperomannia arborescens ......... C C H C ......... ................ (No common name).
Hibiscus arnottianus ssp. ......... ......... C ......... ......... ......... ................ immaculatus (kokio ke okeo).
Hibiscus brackenridgei (mao H C H C C C Ka (R) hau hele).
Ischaemum byrone (Hilo R H C ......... C C ................ ischaemum).
Isodendrion pyrifolium ......... H H H H C Ni (H) (wahine noho kula).
Labordia triflora ......... ......... C ......... ......... ......... ................ (Kamakahala).
Lysimachia maxima (No common ......... ......... C ......... ......... ......... ................ name).
Mariscus faurei (No common ......... ......... C H ......... C ................ name).
Marsilea villosa (ini ihi).. ......... C C ......... ......... ......... Ni (H)
Melicope mucronulata (alani) ......... ......... C ......... C ......... ................
Melicope reflexa (alani).... ......... ......... C ......... ......... ......... ................
Neraudia sericea (No common ......... ......... C H C ......... Ka (H) name).
Peucedanum sandwicense C C C ......... C ......... ................ (makou).
Phyllostegia mannii (No ......... ......... C ......... H ......... ................ common name).
Phyllostegia mollis (No ......... C H ......... C ......... ................ common name).
Plantago princeps (ale)..... C C C ......... C H ................
Platanthera holochila (No C H C ......... C ......... ................ common name).
Pritchardia munroi (loulu).. ......... ......... C ......... ......... ......... ................
Pteris lidgatei (No common ......... C H ......... C ......... ................ name).
Schiedea lydgatei (No common ......... ......... C ......... ......... ......... ................ name).
Schiedea nuttallii (No C C C ......... R ......... ................ common name).
Schiedea sarmentosa (No ......... ......... C ......... ......... ......... ................ common name).
Sesbania tomentosa (ohai)... C C C H C C Ni (H), Ka (C),
NW Isles (C)
Silena alexandri (No common ......... ......... C ......... ......... ......... ................ name).
Silene lanceolata (No common H C C H ......... C ................ name).
Solanum incompletum (popolo H ......... H H H C ................ ku mai).
Spermolepis hawaiiensis (No C C C C C C ................ common name).
Stenogyne bifida (No common ......... ......... C ......... ......... ......... ................ name).
Tetramolopium rockii (No ......... ......... C ......... ......... ......... ................ common name).
Vigna owahuensis (No common ......... H C C C C Ni (H), Ka (C) name).
Zanthoxylum hawaiiense (a e) C ......... C H C C ................ [[Page 83160]]
Key:
C (Current)population last observed within the past 30 years. H (Historical)population not seen for more than 30 years.
R (Reported)reported from undocumented observations.
An additional nine species are known on Molokai only from historical records (pre1970) or from undocumented observations. Prudency determinations and proposed critical habitat designations or nondesignations for these species which still occur on other islands are/will be included in the proposed rules for the islands on which they currently occur (Table 2).
The 40 plants at issue in this proposed rule were listed as
endangered or threatened species under the Endangered Species Act of
1973, as amended (Act), between 1991 and 1999. At the time 39 of these
plants were listed, we determined that designation of critical habitat
was not prudent because designation would increase the degree of threat
to the species and/or would not benefit the plant. These are not
prudent determinations, along with 206 others, were challenged in
Conservation Council for Hawaii v. Babbitt. On March 9, 1998, the
United States District Court for the District of Hawaii directed us to
review the prudency determinations for 245 listed plant species in
Hawaii, including 39 of these species (2 F. Supp. 2d 1280). On August
10, 1998, the court ordered us to publish proposed critical habitat
designations or nondesignations for at least 100 species by November
30, 2000, and to publish proposed designations or nondesignations for
the remaining 145 species by April 30, 2002 (24 F. Supp. 2d 1074).
Table 2.List of Proposed Rules in Which Prudency Determinations and
Critical Habitat Designations Will Be Made for Nine Species That No Longer Occur on Molokai
Proposed rules in
Proposed rule in which critical
Species which prudency will habitat designations
be determined will be proposed
Bonamia menziesii........... Kauai and Niihau (65 Kauai and Niihau (65
FR 66808). FR 66808); Maui and
Kahoolawe (65 FR
79192); Lanai;
Hawaii; Oahu.
Cyperus trachysanthos....... Kauai and Niihau (65 Kauai and Niihau (65
FR 66808). FR 66808); Oahu. Eugenia koolauensis......... Oahu................ Oahu.
Flueggea neowawraea......... Kauai and Niihau (65 Kauai and Niihau (65
FR 66808). FR 66808); Maui and
Kahoolawe (65 FR
79192); Hawaii; Oahu.
Hibiscus brackenridgei...... Maui and Kahoolawe Maui and Kahoolawe
(65 FR 79192). (65 FR 79192);
Lanai; Hawaii; Oahu.
Isodendrion pyrifolium...... Hawaii.............. Hawaii.
Phyllostegia mollis......... Maui and Kahoolawe Maui and Kahoolawe
(65 FR 79192). (65 FR 79192); Oahu.
Pteris lidgatei............. Oahu................ Oahu.
Solanum incompletum......... Hawaii.............. Hawaii.
We determined that designation of critical habitat was prudent for Labordia triflora at the time it was listed and stated in the final listing rule that we would develop a critical habitat designation for this taxon, along with nine others from Maui, Molokai, Lanai, or Kahoolawe (the Maui Nui species) at the same time we developed the designations for the 245 Hawaiian plant species. In Conservation Council for Hawaii v. Babbitt, Civ. No. 9900283 HG (D. Haw. Aug. 19, 1999, Feb. 16, 2000, and March 28, 2000), the United States District Court for the District of Hawaii ordered us to publish proposed critical habitat designations for these ten Maui Nui species by November 30, 2000, and to publish final critical habitat designations by November 30, 2001. This prudency determination and proposed rule designating critical habitat for 32 plants from the island of Molokai respond to these court orders.
We propose that critical habitat is prudent for 19 species (Bidens wiebkei, Brighamia rockii, Canavalia molokaiensis, Clermontia oblongifolia ssp. brevipes, Cyanea dunbarii, Cyanea mannii, Cyanea procera, Hibiscus arnottianus ssp. immaculatus, Lysimachia maxima, Mariscus fauriei, Marsilea villosa, Melicope reflexa, Phyllostegia mannii, Schiedea lydgatei, Schiedea sarmentosa, Silene alexandri, Silene lanceolata, Stenogyne bifida, Tetramolopium rockii) because the potential benefits of designating critical habitat essential for the conservation of these species outweigh the risks of designation as a result of human activity. We propose that critical habitat designation is not prudent for one species, Pritchardia munroi, because it would likely increase the threat from vandalism or collection of this species on Molokai.
Critical habitat is proposed for designation within 28 critical habitat units on the island of Molokai. The land area within these units totals 6,165 hectares (ha) (15,230 acres (ac)). If this proposal is made final, section 7 of the Act would prohibit destruction or adverse modification of critical habitat through any activity funded, authorized, or carried out by any Federal agency. Section 4 of the Act requires us to consider economic and other impacts of specifying any particular area as critical habitat.
The Island of Molokai
The island of Molokai, the fifth largest in the Hawaiian Islands chain, is approximately 61 kilometers (km) (38 miles (mi)) long, up to 17 km (10 mi) wide, and encompasses an area of about 688 sq km (266 sq mi) (57 FR 46325). Three shield volcanoes make up most of the land mass of Molokai: West Molokai Mountain, East Molokai Mountain, and a volcano that formed Kalaupapa Peninsula (57 FR 46325).
The taller and larger East Molokai Mountain rises 1,813 meters (m)
(4,970 feet (ft)) above sea level and comprises roughly 50 percent of
the island's area (57 FR 46325). Topographically, the windward side of
East Molokai differs from the leeward side. Precipitous cliffs line the
northern windward coast and deep inaccessible valleys dissect the
coastal area. The annual rainfall on the windward side is 200 to over
375 centimeters (cm) (75 to over 150 inches (in)), distributed
throughout the year. The soils are poorly drained and high in organic
matter. The gulches and valleys are usually very steep, but sometimes
gently sloping (57 FR 46325). Much of the native vegetation on the northern
[[Page 83161]]
part of East Molokai is intact because of its relative inaccessibility
to humans and animals, although destructive ungulates have begun to enter the coastline in recent years (57 FR 46325).
Discussion of the Plant Taxa
Species Endemic to Molokai
Bidens wiebkei (ko oko olau)
Bidens wiebkei, a member of the aster family (Asteraceae), is a shortlived perennial herb which is somewhat woody at the base and grows from 0.5 to 1 m (1.6 to 3.3 ft) tall with opposite, pinnately compound leaves. This plant is distinguished from other Bidens species which grow on Molokai by its erect habit and the curved or twisted, winged achenes (57 FR 46325; Ganders and Nagata 1999).
This species was observed in flower during May (Hawaii Natural Heritage Program (HINHP) database 2000). No additional life history information is currently available (United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) 1996a).
Historically Bidens wiebkei was known from Pelekunu and the easternmost section of Molokai at Halawa (HINHP Database 2000). It is found currently in Halawaiki Gulch, Lamaloa Gulch, and below Puu Kolekole on State and privately owned lands (Geographic Decision Systems International (GDSI) 2000; HINHP Database 2000). There are a total of three populations containing more than 200 individuals (HINHP Database 2000).
The currently known populations of Bidens wiebkei are scattered along steep, exposed slopes in Metrosideros polymorpha (ohia) dominated mesic shrublands and dry or mesic Metrosideros polymorphaStyphelia tameiameiae (pukiawe) lowland shrubland between 250 and 1,050 m (820 to 3,450 ft) in elevation, extending over a distance of 4 by 1.6 km (2.5 by 1 mi) (Gagne and Cuddihy 1999; HINHP Database 2000; Ganders and Nagata 1999). Other associated plant species include Antidesma sp. (hame), Dodonea viscosa (aalii), Canthium odoratum (alahee), Lysimachia sp. (kolokolo kuahiwi), Nestegis sandwicensis (olopua), Phyllanthus sandwicensis (pamakanimahu), Pisonia sp. (papala kepau), and Scaevola gaudichaudii (naupaka kuahiwi) (HINHP Database 2000).
The major threats to Bidens wiebkei on Molokai, include habitat degradation and possible predation by deer (Axis axis) and feral goats (Capra hircus); competition with nonnative plants, such as Melinus minutiflora (molasses grass) and Schinus terebinthifolius (Christmas berry); fire; and damage by humans of those plants found along trails (HINHP Database 2000; 57 FR 46325).
Canavalia molokaiensis (awikiwiki)
Canavalia molokaiensis, a member of the legume family (Fabaceae), is a shortlived perennial climbing herb with twining branches with leaves made up of three lanceshaped or sometimes oval leaflets. The only species of this genus found on Molokai, this plant can be distinguished from others in the genus by its narrower leaflets and its larger, rosepurple flowers (57 FR 46325; Wagner and Herbst 1999).
This species has been observed in flower during May and December (HINHP Database 2000). Fruits and flowers were observed in March (HINHP Database 2000). No additional life history information is currently available (USFWS 1996a).
Historically, Canavalia molokaiensis was known from East Molokai at Kalaupapa, Pelekunu, and farther south in Kahuaawi Gulch, and the region of Manawai (HINHP Database 2000). It now has a more restricted range, from Kalaupapa to Waialeia, Kaunakakai, Pelekunu, and Kamakou (HINHP Database 2000). There are a total of seven populations containing more than 50 plants on State lands, including lands managed by the National Park Service at Kalaupapa National Historical Park, and privately owned lands (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).
Canavalia molokaiensis typically grows in exposed sites, both dry and mesic, on steep slopes in Metrosideros polymorphaDodonea viscosa lowland shrubland and mesic shrublands between 10 and 900 m (30 to 3,060 ft) in elevation (HINHP Database 2000). Associated plant species include Artemesia sp. (hinahina), Chamaesyce sp. (akoko), Coprosma sp. (pilo), Styphelia tameiameiae, and Wikstroemia sp. (akia) (HINHP Database 2000).
The threats to this species on Molokai include habitat degradation by feral ungulates such as goats and pigs (Sus scrofa), possible predation by feral goats, and competition with nonnative plants, such as Melinis minutiflora (USFWS 1996a).
Clermonita oblongifolia ssp. brevipes (oha wai)
Clermontia oblongifolia ssp. brevipes, a member of the bellflower family (Campanulaceae), is a shortlived perennial shrub or tree which reaches a height of 2 to 7 m (6.6 to 23 ft). This species is distinguished from others in the genus by the structure of its calyx and corolla as well as by the lengths of the flower, the floral lobes, and the green hypanthium. This subspecies differs from others of the species by the shape and length of its leaves, leaf stalks, and flower stalks (Lammers 1988, 1999).
No life history information for this species is currently available (USFWS 1996a).
Clermontia oblongifolia ssp. brevipes is known from a single population of five individuals on the privately owned land of the Nature Conservancy of Hawaii's (TNCH) Kamakou Preserve (HINHP Database 2000; USFWS 1996a; Joel Lau, HINHP, in litt. 2000). The historical range of this subspecies is not known (USFWS 1996a).
Clermontia oblongifolia ssp. brevipes occurs in shallow soil on gulch slopes in the wet Metrosideros polymorphadominated forest at an elevation between 1,100 and 1,200 m (3,500 and 4,320 ft) (HINHP Database 2000; J. Lau, in litt. 2000). Associated plant species include Cheirodendron trigynum (olapa), Cibotium spp. (hapuu), Broussaisia argutus (kanawao), Hedyotis terminalis (manono), and Melicope sp. (alani) (J. Lau, in litt. 2000).
The threats to this species on Molokai are habitat degradation by feral pigs; possible predation on the fruit or plant parts by rats (Rattus rattus), as evidence on related species suggests (USFWS 1996a; 57 FR 46325); and random naturally occurring events that may cause the extinction of the entire taxon due to its single population and very low number of individuals.
Cyanea dunbarii (haha)
Cyanea dunbarii, a member of the bellflower family (Campanulaceae), is a shortlived perennial, branched shrub 1.5 to 2 m (4.9 to 6.6 ft) tall with oval to broadly elliptic leaves that have irregularly lobed or cleft margins. This species is distinguished from others in this endemic Hawaiian genus by the lack of prickles on the stems and the irregularly lobed and cleft leaf margins (Lammers 1999).
Cyanea dunbarii was observed in flower, with immature fruit, in September (HINHP Database 2000). No additional life history information is currently available (USFWS 1998a).
Cyanea dunbarii was collected in 1918 at Waihanau and Waialae
Valleys, and was not observed again until 1992, when Joel Lau of the
Hawaii Natural Heritage Program found it in Mokomoko Gulch on State
owned land within Molokai Forest Reserve (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database
2000; 61 FR 53130; Ken Wood, National Tropical Botanical Garden (NTBG),
in litt. 2000). Currently, it is known from a single population of [[Page 83162]]
approximately 30 mature plants at an elevation of 671 m (2,200 ft) (HINHP Database 2000; K. Wood, in litt. 2000).
Cyanea dunbarii occurs on a streambank in a mesic to wet Dicranopteris linearis (uluhe)Metrosideros polymorpha lowland forest on moderate to steep slopes (HINHP Database 2000). Associated species include Diplazium sandwicianum (hoio), Charpentiera obovata (papala), Perrottetia sandwicensis (olomea), Pipturus albidus (mamaki), Clermontia kakeana (ohawai), Cheirodendron trigynum, and Freycinetia arborea (ieie) (USFWS 1998a).
The major threats to this single population of Cyanea dunbarii on Molokai are competition with the nonnative plants Buddleia asiatica (butterfly bush), Erigeron karvinskianus (daisy fleabane), Rubus rosifolius (thimbleberry), Commelina diffusa (honohono), Hedychium gardnerianum (ginger), and Kalanchoe pinnata (air plant); and catastrophic extinction by naturally occurring events such as landslides or flooding, and/or reduced reproductive vigor due to the small number of individuals in the only known population. In addition, predation by rats is a potential threat since rats are known to be in the area and are known to eat stems and fruits of other species of Cyanea; habitat degradation and predation by axis deer and pigs are other potential threats to this species, because both of these species are known to occur in areas adjacent to the only known population (USFWS 1998a; Cuddihy and Stone 1990).
Cyanea mannii (haha)
Cyanea mannii, a member of the bellflower family (Campanulaceae), is a branched shortlived perennial shrub 1.5 to 3 m (5 to 10 ft) tall with narrowly elliptic or lanceshaped leaves. This species is distinguished from the seven other species of the genus on Molokai by a combination of the following characters: a branched, woody habit; leaves with small, hardened, marginal teeth; and a purplish corolla (Lammers 1999; 57 FR 46325).
Cyanea mannii has been observed in flower during July (HINHP Database 2000). No additional life history information is currently available (USFWS 1996a).
Historically, Cyanea mannii was known only from Kalae on East Molokai (HINHP Database 2000). In 1984, a single plant was discovered by Joan Aidem on privately owned land west of Puu Kolekole on East Molokai (HINHP Database 2000; Lammers 1999; USFWS 1996a). Since then, eight additional populations have been discovered in the east and west forks of Kawela Gulch on the privately owned land of TNCH's Kamakou Preserve on East Molokai and within the State's Molokai Forest Reserve (K. Wood, in litt. 2000; HINHP Database 2000). These nine populations contain approximately 200 individuals on State and privately owned lands (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000; K. Wood, in litt. 2000).
This species typically grows on the sides of deep gulches in Metrosideros polymorpha dominated montane mesic forest at elevations between 559 and 1,220 m (1,900 to 4,000 ft) (HINHP Database 2000; Lammers 1999; USFWS 1996a). Associated plant species include Wiskstroemia sp., Dicranopteris linearis, and Vaccinium sp. (ohelo) (USFWS 1996a).
Threats to Cyanea mannii on Molokai are habitat degradation by feral pigs; predation by rats who may feed on the fruit or other parts of the plant, as suggested by evidence from related species; catastrophic extinction through naturally occurring events that this species is vulnerable to due to its few populations and small number of individuals (USFWS 1996a).
Cyanea procera (haha)
Cyanea procera, a member of the bellflower family (Campanulaceae), is a palmlike shortlived perennial tree 3 to 9 m (10 to 30 ft) tall with stalkless, lanceshaped leaves 60 to 75 cm (24 to 30 in) long and 10 to 17 cm (3.9 to 6.7 in) wide with tiny hardened teeth along the margins. This species can be distinguished from other species of the genus by its growth habit, its sessile leaves, and the singlelipped appearance of the corolla (Lammers 1999; 57 FR 46325).
No life history information is currently available for this species (USFWS 1996a).
Historically, Cyanea procera was known only from an unspecified site in the Kamalo region of East Molokai (HINHP Database 2000). Currently, this species is found on the privately owned lands of Kamakou Preserve and the State's Puu Alii Natural Area Reserve (NAR) in a total of five populations containing at least 10 individuals (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).
Cyanea procera is found on the walls of steep gulches in wet Metrosideros polymorpha dominated lowland mixed forest between 935 and 1,073 m (3,180 to 3,650 ft) elevation (HINHP Database 2000). Associated plant species include various species of Asplenium, Brousaissia arguta, Coprosma ochracea (pilo), Cyanea spp. (haha), Cyrtandra macrocalyx (haiwale), Dicranopteris linearis, Pipturus albidus, Pisonia spp., Scaevola procera (naupaka kuahiwi), and Touchardia latifolia (olona) (USFWS 1996a).
Threats to Cyanea procera on Molokai are predation by feral rats (as suggested by evidence on related species) and goats; habitat degradation by feral goats and pigs; habitat destruction through erosion; catastrophic extinction from naturally occurring events due to the vulnerability of a few populations with a small number of individuals (57 FR 46325).
Hibiscus arnottianus ssp. immaculatus (kokio ke okeo)
Hibiscus arnottianus ssp. immaculatus, a member of the hibiscus family (Malvaceae), is a longlived perennial tree up to 3 m (10 ft) tall with alternate, oval, toothed leaves measuring 5 to 7 cm (2 to 2.8 in) long and 4 to 6.5 cm (1.6 to 2.6 in) wide. This subspecies is distinguished from other native Hawaiian members of the genus by its white petals and white staminal column (Bates 1999; 57 FR 46325).
This taxon was observed in flower during July (HINHP Database 2000). Currently, no additional life history information is available for this species (USFWS 1996a).
Hibiscus arnottianus ssp. immaculatus once ranged from Waihanau Valley east to Papalaua Valley on East Molokai (HINHP Database 2000). Currently this taxon is found only west of Papalaua Valley on privately owned land and in the State's Olokui NAR above Waiehu (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000). There are a total of two populations containing between 20 and 30 individuals (HINHP Database 2000).
Hibiscus arnottianus ssp. immaculatus individuals are scattered along steep sea cliffs in mesic forests between 15 and 480 m (50 and 1,600 ft) in elevation (Bates 1999; HINHP Database 2000). Associated native plant species include Athyrium spp. (akolea), Canthium odoratum, Cyanea grimesiana (haha), Antidesma platyphyllum (hame), Boehmeria grandis (akolea), Diospyros sandwicensis (lama), Pipturis spp. (mamaki), Urera glabra (opuhe), and Metrosideros polymorpha (HINHP Database 2000).
The major threats to Hibiscus arnottianus spp. immaculatus on Molokai are habitat destruction by feral goats and catastrophic extinction by naturally occurring events due to the vulnerability of the two remaining populations and few individuals (USFWS 1996a). [[Page 83163]]
Labordia triflora (kamakahala)
Labordia triflora, a shortlived perennial member of the logan family (Loganiaceae), is very similar to Labordia tinifolia var. lanaiensis, except in the following characteristics: the stems of L. triflora are climbing; the leaf stalks are only 1 to 3 millimeters (mm) (0.04 to 0.1 in.) long; inflorescence stalks are 40 to 50 mm (1.6 to 2 in.) long; and, each flower stalk is 10 to 25 mm (0.4 to 1 in.) long (Motley 1995).
The flowers of this species are functionally unisexual (Motley 1995; HINHP Database 2000). No additional life history information is available at this time.
Until 1990, Labordia triflora was known only from the type collection at Mapulehu, on the island of Molokai (Motley 1995) and was believed to be extinct. In 1990, Joel Lau rediscovered the species in Kua Gulch on Molokai (HINHP Database 2000; Motley 1995). Currently, only 10 individuals are known from privately owned land (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).
This species occurs in mixed lowland mesic forest, at an elevation of ca. 800 m (2,600 ft). Associated species include Pouteria sandwicensis (alaa), the federally endangered Cyanea mannii (haha), and Tetraplasandra spp. (ohe ohe) (Motley 1995).
The threats to Labordia triflora include habitat degradation and destruction by feral pigs and goats; predation by rats that eat seeds; competition with the nonnative plant species Schinus terebinthifolius (Motley 1995); catastrophic extinction through environmental events and reduced reproductive vigor due to the species' few populations and small number of individuals (64 FR 48307).
Lysimachia maxima (no common name)
Lysimachia maxima, a member of the primrose family (Primulaceae), is a sprawling shortlived perennial shrub with reddish brown bark. This species is differentiated from others in this genus by the leaves borne in groups of three, the broadest portion of the leaf above the middle, and rusty hairs that disappear with maturity (Wagner et al. 1999).
Flowers, buds and immature fruit of Lysimachia maxima have been observed in late May through July (USFWS 1998a). No other life history information is available for this species (61 FR 53130).
Lysimachia maxima is only known from a single population containing between 45 and 50 individuals on the rim of Pelekunu Valley near Ohialele, on the privately owned land of TNCH's Pelekunu Preserve (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).
This species occurs in Metrosideros polymorphaDicranopteris linearis montane wet forest at an elevation of 975 m (3,200 ft). Associated species include Psychotria sp. (kopiko), Vaccinium sp., Hedyotis sp. (No common name), Dubautia sp. (na ena e), and Ilex anomala (aiae) (HINHP Database 2000).
The major threats to Lysimachia maxima are catastrophic extinction from random environmental events (e.g., landslides); reduced reproductive vigor due to the small number of individuals in the only known population (USFWS 1998a); habitat degradation and/or predation by feral pigs and goats that are known from adjacent areas (USFWS 1998a). Melicope reflexa (alani)
Melicope reflexa, a longlived perennial of the citrus family (Rutaceae), is a sprawling shrub 1 to 3 m (3.3 to 10 ft) tall with short, yellowishbrown, shortlived hairs on new growth. Opposite leaves with leaf stalks usually over 1 cm (0.4 in) long, larger leaves and fruit, and partially fused sections of capsule separate it from other species of the genus (Stone et al. 1999).
Currently, no life history information is available for this species (USFWS 1996a).
Historically, Melicope reflexa occurred from a ridge between Hanalilolilo and Pepeopae in Kamakou Preserve to as far east as Halawa on East Molokai (HINHP Database 2000). The three remaining populations of fewer than a total of 1,000 individuals are on State and private lands in Honomuni, the WailauMapulehu summit area, and Kukuinui Ridge in Wailau Valley (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).
Melicope reflexa typically grows in wet Metrosideros polymorpha dominated forest with native trees such as Cheirodendron sp. (olapa) at elevations between 760 and 1,190 m (2,490 and 3,900 ft) (Stone et al. 1999).
Major threats to Melicope reflexa include habitat degradation and predation by ungulates (axis deer and feral pigs); competition with the nonnative plant Clidemia hirta (Koster's curse); catastrophic extinction from environmental events due to species' few populations and small number of individuals (57 FR 46325; USFWS 1996a). Pritchardia munroi (loulu)
Pritchardia munroi, a member of the palm family (Arecaceae), is a perennial tree about 4 to 5 m (13 to 16 ft) tall. The leaves and petioles have scattered, mostly deciduous scales and hairs, somewhat larger on the lower leaf ribs. The leaves are deeply divided into segments which have long, drooping tips. Numerous bisexual or functionally male flowers are arranged in clusters on hairy, branching stalks which originate at the leaf bases. The mature fruit is shiny, black, and nearly spherical. This species is distinguished from others of the genus by its relatively smooth leaves; the grayishbrown hair on the inflorescence stalks, which are shorter than the petioles; and the small size of the fruits (Read and Hodel 1999).
Currently, no life history information is available for this species (USFWS 1996a).
Historically and currently Pritchardia munroi is found in leeward East Molokai, above Kamalo, near Kapuaokoolau Gulch (HINHP Database 2000, Read and Hodel 1999). The only known wild individual is found on privately owned land (HINHP Database 2000).
The only known wild individual grows near the base of a small ravine in remnant dry to mesic forest at an elevation of about 610 m (2,000 ft) (Read and Hodel 1999). Associated plant species include Dodonaea viscosa, Metrosideros polymorpha, Styphelia tameiameiae, and Pleomele aurea (hala pepe) (HINHP Database 2000).
Threats to the only known wild individual of Pritchardia munroi include habitat degradation by ungulates (axis deer, goats, and pigs) around its fenced exclosure prevent the establishment of seedlings; predation of seeds by rats; catastrophic extinction by random environmental events (e.g., fire) due to its extreme rarity (57 FR 46325; USFWS 1996a).
Schiedea lydgatei (no common name)
Schiedea lydgatei, a member of the pink family (Caryophyllaceae), is a low, hairless perennial plant with branched stems 10 to 40 cm (4 to 16 in) long which are woody at the base. The opposite, threeveined leaves are elliptic. Bisexual flowers are arranged in loosely spreading clusters. The capsules open when mature to reveal dark reddishbrown seeds. The opposite, thin, threeveined leaves with petioles and the smooth, open flower clusters with relatively larger, green sepals separate this species from other members of this endemic Hawaiian genus (Wagner et al. 1999).
This species was observed with flowers and fruit in June (HINHP Database 2000). Currently, no additional life history information is available (USFWS 1996a).
[[Page 83164]]
Historically, Schiedea lydgatei was found in Kalae, Poholua, Makolelau, and Ohia Gulch on East Molokai (HINHP Database 2000). This species is now known from two scattered populations in a more restricted area in Makakupaia, Kawela, and Makolelau. The two populations are distributed over an area of less than 1.6 by 5.6 km (1 by 3.5 mi), totaling fewer than 1,000 individuals on State and privately owned lands (HINHP Database 2000; GDSI 2000).
This species is found along ridges in dry to mesic grassland, shrubland, and forest with scattered native trees. It ranges in elevation from about 600 to 650 m (2,000 to 2,100 ft) (HINHP Database 2000; Wagner et al. 1999). Associated plant species include Dodonaea viscosa, Metrosideros polymorpha, Styphelia tameiameiae, and Dicranopteris linearis (Gagne and Cuddihy 1999).
The major threats to Schiedea lydgatei are habitat degradation by feral ungulates; and competition with the nonnative plant species Melinus minutiflora; and catastrophic extinction due to random environmental events, primarily fire, (57 FR 46325; USFWS 1996a) because in this species' dry, windswept habitat, a single fire potentially could destroy a large part of the populations.
Schiedea sarmentosa (no common name)
Schiedea sarmentosa, a perennial herb of the pink family (Caryophyllaceae), is a manybranched shrub. The opposite leaves are slender, threadlike, and are covered with dense, gladular hairs. There may be as many as 40 to 60 inflorescences on one plant, often with 50 to 100 flowers in each inflorenscence. The flowers are female on some plants and bisexual on others. The green sepals are eggshaped and somewhat hairy. The staminodes (false stamens) are half as long as the sepals and twobranched at the tip. The fruits are oval capsules. This species differs from others in this endemic Hawaiian genus by its densely bushy habit, leaf width, hairiness, and staminode length (Wagner, et al. 1999).
The flowers are female on some plants and bisexual on others. The population on Makolelau Gulch has a frequency 31 percent females. Based on analyses of pollenovule ratios, pollen size, inforescence structure, and comparison to other Schiedea species tested in a wind tunnel, Schiedea sarmentosa could be windpollinated. No other life history information for this species is available (USFWS 1998a).
Schiedea sarmentosa has been found in Kawela Gulch, Makolelau, and Onini Gulch (HINHP Database 2000). Currently, only two populations are known to be extant. One population on the boundary of the privately owned land of TNCH's Kamakou Preserve and State owned land in Onini Gulch has approximately 30 individuals (HINHP Database 2000). The other population occurs on privately owned land in Makolelau, and consists of 4 subpopulations totaling approximately 300 to 400 individuals (USFWS 1998a; GDSI 2000). Estimates of the total number of individuals have ranged up to 1,000 (USFWS 1998a). An accurate count is somewhat difficult because this species is interspersed with Schiedea lydgatei (USFWS 1998a).
Schiedea sarmentosa is typically found on steep slopes in Metrosideros polymorphaDodonaea viscosa lowland dry or mesic shrubland between 610 and 790 m (2,000 and 2,600 ft) elevation (HINHP Database 2000; HPCC 2000). Associated species include Styphelia tameiameiae, Chenopodium oahuensis (ahe ahea), Alyxia oliviformis (maile), Pleomele sp. (hala pepe), Bidens menziesii (kokoolau), Carex meynii (No common name), Lipochaeta rockii (nehe), Nestegis sandwicensis, Nothocestrum latifolium (aiea), Nototrichium sandwicense (kului), Sida fallax (ilima), Sophora chrysophylla (mamane), and Chamaesyce sp. (HINHP Database 2000).
Major threats to Schiedea sarmentosa include habitat degradation by feral goats and pigs, competition by the nonnative plants Melinis minutiflora and Ricinus communis (paaila), and fire. The species is also threatened by a risk of extinction from naturally occurring events due to the low number of populations (61 FR 53130; USFWS 1998a). Silene alexandri (no common name)
Silene alexandri, a member of the pink family (Caryophyllaceae), is an erect, perennial herb, 30 to 60 cm (1 to 2 ft) tall, and woody at the base. The narrow, elliptic leaves are hairless except for a fringe along the margins. Flowers are arranged in open clusters on stalks. The hairless stems, flowering stalks, and sepals and the larger flowers with white petals separate this species from other members of the genus (Wagner, et al. 1999).
Currently, no life history information is available for this species.
Historically, Silene alexandri was known from Makolelau and Kamalo on East Molokai. Currently, one population comprising fewer than 10 individuals remains in Makolelau on privately owned land (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).
The only known population is found in remnant dry forest and shrubland at an elevation between 610 and 760 m (2,000 and 2,500 ft) (HINHP Database 2000; Wagner, et al. 1999). Associated plant species include Dodonaea viscosa, Metrosideros polymorpha, Styphelia tameiameiae, Dicranopteris linearis, Chenopodium oahuense, and Sophora chrysophylla (Gagne and Cuddihy 1999).
Threats to the single population of Silene alexandri include habitat degradation by feral goats, predation by goats and cattle (Bos taurus) may possibly occur, and catastrophic extinction through random environmental events, of which the most serious is fire, due to the vulnerability of this single population (57 FR 46325; USFWS 1996a). Stenogyne bifida (no common name)
Stenogyne bifida, a nonaromatic member of the mint family (Lamiaceae), is a climbing perennial herb, with smooth or slightly hairy, fourangled stems. The opposite, membranous, toothed leaves are oval or elliptical in shape, and are hairless except for the midribs. Flowers are usually arranged in groups of two to six in each of several whorls at the ends of the stems. The petals are fused into a nearly straight, yellow tube which flares into palebrown lobes comprising an upper and a lower lip. The fruits are fleshy, black nutlets. The long, narrow calyx teeth and the deep lobe in the upper lip of the yellow corolla separate this species from others of the genus (Weller and Sakai 1999).
Currently, no life history information is available for this species.
Historically, Stenogyne bifida was known from scattered populations from Waianui in central Molokai to Pukoo Ridge on East Molokai (HINHP Database 2000). This species is now known from only four East Molokai populations totaling fewer than 10 individuals on ManawaiKahananui Ridge along the boundary between private and State lands; on Kolo Ridge, at Kamoku flats; and on the eastern fork of Kawela Gulch on the privately owned land of TNCH's Pelekunu Preserve (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).
Stenogyne bifida typically grows on steep ridges in Metrosideros
polymorpha dominated montane mesic to wet forest with native species
such as Cibotium sp., Hedyotis sp., Cyanea sp., Dicranopteris linearis,
Dodonaea viscosa, Hedyotis hillebrandii (manono), Pipturus albidus, Psychotria sp., Styphelia tameiameiae, Vaccinium sp.,
[[Page 83165]]
Wikstroemia sp., Cheirodendron trigynum, Broussaisia arguta, and
Pouteria sandwicensis (alaa) at elevations between 450 and 1,200 m (1,450 and 4,000 ft) (HINHP Database 2000; USFWS 1996a).
The most pervasive threat to this species is habitat degradation by ungulates (axis deer, goats, and pigs) (57 FR 46325; USFWS 1996a). Tetramolopium rockii (no common name)
Tetramolopium rockii, a member of the aster family (Asteraceae), is a glandular, hairy, prostrate perennial shrub which forms complexly branching mats. The species has been divided into two varieties in the most recent treatment of this genus in Hawaii. Leaves of variety calcisabulorum have slightly inrolled edges, and are whitish due to the long silky hairs on their surfaces. Variety rockii has smaller, less hairy, flat, yellowishgreen leaves. The leaves of both varieties are spatulashaped with glands and smooth margins. Flower heads, arranged singly at the ends of flowering stalks are composed of approximately 60 to 100 white ray florets surround 30 to 55 functionally male, yellow, funnelshaped disk florets. Fruits are achenes topped with white bristles. This species differs from others of the genus by its growth habit, its hairy and glandular surfaces, its spatulate leaf shape, and its yellow disk florets (Lowrey 1999).
Currently, no life history information is available for this species (USFWS 1996a).
Of the two recognized varieties of Tetramolopium rockii, variety rockii was first discovered at Moomomi about 80 years ago and is still extant in that area. Tetramolopium rockii var. rockii is found in three areas, from Kalawao to Kahinaakalani, Keieho Point to Kaplalauoa, and from Moomomi to Kahinaakalani (HINHP Database 2000). Variety calcisabulorum is only reported from Keieho Point to Kaplalauoa intergrading with variety rockii where their ranges overlap (HINHP Database 2000). The total number of individuals of both varieties in the three populations is estimated to be 174,000; they are located on State lands, including land managed by the National Park Service at Kalaupapa National Historical Park, and privately owned lands (HINHP Database 2000; GDSI 2000).
Tetramolopium rockii is restricted to hardened calcareous sand dunes or ashcovered basalt in the coastal spray zone or coastal dry shrubland and grassland between 10 and 200 m (30 and 650 ft) in elevation (Lowrey 1999). Native plant species associated with this species include Canthium odoratum, Diospyros sandwicensis, Metrosideros polymorpha, Osteomeles anthyllidifolia (ulei), Scaevola sp. (naupaka), Fimbristylis cymosa (mau u aki aki), Heliotropium anomalum (ahinahina), Lipochaeta integrifolia (nehe), Sida fallax, and Sporobolus virginicus (akiaki) (USFWS 1996a; HINHP Database 2000).
The major threats to Tetramolopium rockii are habitat degradation
by ungulate (axis deer and cattle) activity and human recreation,
competition with the nonnative plant Prosopis pallida (kiawe), and catastrophic extinction due to fire (57 FR 46325).
MultiIsland Species
Adenophorus periens (pendant kihi fern)
Adenophorus periens, a shortlived perennial member of the grammitis family (Grammitidaceae), is a small, pendant, epiphytic (not rooted on the ground) fern. This species differs from other species in this endemic Hawaiian genus by having hairs along the pinna margins, by the pinnae being at right angles to the midrib axis, by the placement of the sori on the pinnae, and the degree of dissection of each pinna (USFWS 1999; Linney 1989).
Little is known about the life history of Adenophorus periens, which seems to grow only in dense closedcanopy forest with high humidity. Its breeding system is unknown but outbreeding is very likely to be the predominant mode of reproduction. Spores are dispersed by wind, possibly by water, and perhaps on the feet of birds or insects (Linney 1989). Spores lack a thick resistant coat which may indicate their longevity is brief, probably measured in days at most. Due to the weak differences between seasons, there seems to be no evidence of seasonality in growth or reproduction. Additional information on reproductive cycles, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors is not available (USFWS 1999).
Historically, Adenophorus periens was known from Kauai, Oahu, Lanai, East Maui, and Hawaii Island (HINHP Database 2000). Currently, it is known from several locations on Kauai, Molokai, and Hawaii (HINHP Database 2000). On Molokai, it is found in a single population containing seven individuals on the privately owned land within TNCH's Kamakou Preserve (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).
This species, an epiphyte usually growing on Metrosideros polymorpha trunks, is found in Metrosideros polymorphaMyrsine lessertiana (kolea) forest at elevations between 400 and 1,265 m (1,312 and 4,150 ft) (HINHP Database 2000). It is found in habitats of well developed, closed canopy providing deep shade and high humidity (Linney 1989). Associated native species include Broussasia arguta, Cheirodendron trigynum, Coprosma ochracea, Cyanea sp., Cyrtandra sp. (haiwale), Dicranopteris linearis, Freycinetia arborea, Hedyotis terminalis, Labordia hirtella (No common name), Machaerina angustifolia (uki), Psychotria hexandra (kopiko), Styphelia tameiameiae, Ilex anomala, Vaccinium calycinum (ohelo), Cibotium glaucum (hapuu), Melicope sp., Viola robusta (pamakani), Stenogyne kamehamehae (No common name), Anoectochilus sandvicensis (jewel orchid), and Syzygium sandwicensis (ohia ha) (HINHP Database 2000; USFWS 1999).
The threats to this species on Molokai are habitat degradation by feral pigs and goats, and competition with the nonnative plant Psidium cattleianum (strawberry guava) (HINHP Database 2000; 59 FR 56333; USFWS 1999).
Alectryon macrococcus (mahoe)
Alectryon macrococcus, a longlived perennial member of the soapberry family (Sapindaceae), consists of two varieties, macrococcus and auwahiensis, both trees with reddishbrown branches and netveined paper or leatherlike leaves with one to five pairs of sometimes asymmetrical eggshaped leaflets. The underside of the leaf has dense brown hairs, only when young in A. macrococcus var. macrococcus, and whether young or mature (persistent) in A. macrococcus var. auwahiensis (only found on East Maui). The only member of its genus found in Hawaii, this species is distinguished from other Hawaiian members of its family by being a tree with a hard fruit 2.5 cm (0.9 in) or more in diameter (Kimura and Nagata 1980; Wagner et al. 1999).
Alectryon macrococcus is a relatively slowgrowing tree that grows in xeric to mesic sites and is adapted to periodic drought. Little else is known about the life history of this species. Flowering cycles, pollination vectors, seed dispersal agents, and specific environmental requirements are unknown.
Currently, Alectryon macrococcus var. macrococcus is known from
Kauai, Oahu, Maui, and Molokai. On Molakai, it is found on the
privately owned land of TNCH's Kamakou Preserve, along the Puu Kolekole
jeep road, Kaunakakai Gulch, and Kamiloloa Gulch in a total [[Page 83166]]
of six populations containing nine individuals on State and privately owned lands (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).
Alectryon macrococcus var. macrococcus typically grows on dry or talus slopes or in gulches within dry or mesic lowland forest between elevations of 360 and 1,070 m (1,181 and 3,510 ft) (HINHP Database 2000; Wagner et al. 1999). Associated native plants include Dodonea viscosa, Nestegis sandwicensis, Nothocestrum sp. (aiea), Pleomele sp., Psychotria sp., Streblus pendulina (aiai), Myrsine sp. (kolea), and Lipochaeta sp. (nehe) (USFWS 1997; HINHP Database 2000).
The threats to Alectryon macrococcus var. macrococcus on Molokai include habitat degradation by feral goats and pigs; competition from nonnative plant species such as Melinus minutiflora, Pennisetum clandestinum (kikuyu grass), Schinus terebinthifolius, and Psidium cattleianum; damage from the black twig borer (Xylosandrus compactus); seed predation by rats and mice (Mus domesticus) and by insects (probably the endemic microlepidopteran Prays cf. fulvocanella); loss of pollinators; and catastrophic extinction through a single natural or humancaused environmental disturbance (e.g., fire) due to the very small remaining number of individuals and their limited distribution on Molokai (USFWS 1997; 57 FR 20772; HINHP Database 2000).
Brighamia rockii (pua ala)
Brighamia rockii, a longlived perennial member of the bellflower family (Campanulaceae), grows as an unbranched stem succulent with a thickened stem that tapers from the base. This species is a member of a unique endemic Hawaiian genus with only one other species, found on Kauai, from which it differs by the color of its petals, its longer calyx (fused sepals) lobes, and its shorter flower stalks (Lammers 1999).
Observations of Brighamia rockii by Gemmill (1996) have provided the following information: the reproductive system is protandrous, meaning there is a temporal separation between the production of male and female gametes, in this case a separation of several days; only 5 percent of the flowers produce pollen; very few fruits are produced per inflorescence; there are 20 to 60 seeds per capsule; and plants in cultivation have flowers at an age of 9 months (USFWS 1996a). This species was observed in flower during August (HINHP Database 2000).
Historically, Brighamia rockii ranged along the northern coast of East Molokai from Kalaupapa to Halawa and may possibly have grown on Lanai and Maui (HINHP Database 2000; Lammers 1999). Currently, it is only extant on Molokai in a total of five populations with between 121 to 131 individual plants occurring on State and privately owned lands (HINHP Database 2000; GDSI 2000). It occurs on steep, inaccessible sea cliffs along East Molokai's northern coastline from Anapuhi Beach to Wailau Valley on private lands, and on the relatively inaccessible Stateowned sea stack of Huelo, east of Anapuhi Beach (HINHP Database 2000; K. Wood, in litt. 2000).
The plants are found in rock crevices on steep basalt sea cliffs, often within the spray zone, in coastal dry or mesic forest, Eragrostis variabilis (kawelu) mixed coastal cliff communities, or shrubland, or Pritchardia sp. (loulu) coastal mesic forest between sea level and 470 m (0 and 1,540 ft). Associated native species include Pritchardia hillebrandii (loulu), Chamaesyce celastroides var. amplectans (akoko), Wikstroemia uvaursi (akia), Carex wahuensis ssp. wahuensis (No common name), Mariscus phleoides ssp. pleoides (No common name), Eragrostis variabilis, Dianella sandwicensis (ukiuki), Cocculus trilobus (huehue), Phymatosorus scolopendria (lauae), Crytomium falcatum (ahina kuahiwi), Lepidium bidentatum var. owaihiense (anaunau), Pittosporum halophilum (hoawa), Artemisia sp., Bidens sp. (kookoolau), Schiedea globosa (No common name), Reynoldsia sandwicensis (ohe), Pandanus tectorius (hala), Peucedanum sandwicensis (makou), Hedyotis littoralis (No common name), Metrosideros polymorpha, Psydrax odoratum, Diospyros sandwicensis, Osteomeles anthyllidifolia, Tetramolopium cassia (pamakani), Senna gaudichaudii (kolomona), and Scaevola sericea (naupaka kahakai) (HINHP Database 2000; Lammers 1999; K. Wood, in litt. 2000).
The threats to this species on Molokai are habitat degradation (and possibly predation) by deer and goats; competition with the nonnative plants, Cyperus gracilis (McCoy grass), Digitaria ciliaris (Henry's crabgrass), Digitaria insularis (sourgrass), Ficus microcarpa (Chinese banyan), Kalanchoe pinnata, Lantana camara (lantana), Oxalis corniculata (yellow wood sorrel), Pluchea symphytifolia (sourbush), Portulaca oleracea (pigweed), and Solanum seaforthianum (No common name); seed predation by rats; and lack of pollinators (USFWS 1996a; 57 FR 46325; HINHP Database 2000).
Centaurium sebaeoides (awiwi)
Centaurium sebaeoides, a member of the gentian family (Gentianaceae), is an annual herb with fleshy leaves and stalkless flowers. This species is distinguished from Centaurium erythraea, which is naturalized in Hawaii, by its fleshy leaves and the unbranched arrangement of the flower cluster (Wagner et al. 1999).
Centaurium sebaeoides has been observed flowering in April. Flowering may be induced by heavy rainfall. Populations are found in dry areas, and plants are more likely to be found following heavy rains (USFWS 1995a). This species appears to be a determinate annual; triggered by declining photoperiod, the plant produces seeds and dies (Medeiros et al. 1999). Medeiros et al. (1999) noted that in the wild seedlings first appeared in March and April; flowers first appeared in April and May; mature capsules were observed beginning in May and continuing through June; and by the first week of July, most plants were dead. No additional life history information is available for this plant (USFWS 1995a).
Historically and currently, Centaurium sebaeoides is known from scattered localities on Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, and Maui (Wagner et al. 1999). Currently on Molokai, there are a total of two populations containing thousands of individuals, near Mokio Point on privately owned land and in Kalaupapa National Historical Park on State and federally owned land that is managed by the National Park Service (Chuck Chimera, formerly with Biological Resources Division (BRD), pers. comm. 2000; GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).
This species typically grows in volcanic or clay soils or on cliffs in arid coastal areas below 120 m (400 ft) elevation on Molokai (56 FR 55770; Wagner et al. 1999). Associated species include Chamaesyce celastroides (akoko), Dodonea viscosa, Fimbristylis cymosa, Heteropogon contortus (pili grass), Lipochaeta heterophylla (nehe), Lipochaeta integrifolia, Lycium sandwicense (ohelo kai), Lysimachia mauritiana (kolokolo kuahiwi), Mariscus phleoides (No common name), Panicum fauriei (No common name), Panicum torridum (kakonakona), Scaevola sericea, Schiedea globosa, Sida fallax, Wikstroemia uvaursi, Artemisia sp., Bidens sp., Jaquemontia ovalifolia (pa uohi iaka), and Lipochaeta succulenta (nehe) (Medeiros et al. 1999; 56 FR 55770).
The major threats to this species on Molokai are displacement by nonnative
[[Page 83167]]
woody species such as: Casuarina equisetifolia (paina), Casuarina
glauca (saltmarsh), Laucaena leucocephala (koa haole), Prosopis
pallida, Schinus terebinthifolius, Syzygium cumini (Java plum), and
Tournefortia argentea (tree heliotrope); trampling and habitat
degradation by feral goats and cattle; and damage caused by offroad vehicles (Medeiros et al. 1999).
Ctenitis squamigera (pauoa)
Ctenitis squamigera is a shortlived perennial and a member of the wood fern family (Dryopteridaceae) (Wagner and Wagner 1992). It has a rhizome (horizontal stem) 5 to 10 mm (0.2 to 0.4 in) thick, creeping above the ground and densely covered with scales similar to those on the lower part of the leaf stalk. The leaf stalks are densely clothed with tancolored scales up to 1.8 cm (0.7 in) long and 1 mm (0.04 in) wide. The sori are tancolored when mature and are in a single row one third of the distance from the margin to the midrib of the ultimate segments (Degener and Degener 1957). The indusium is whitish before wrinkling, thin, suborbicular with a narra sinus extending about half way, glabrous except for a circular margin which is ciliolate with simple severalcelled glandular and nonglandular hairs arising directly from the margin or from the deltoid base (Degener and Degener 1957). Ctenitis squamigera can be readily distinguished from other Hawaiian species of Ctenitis by the dense covering of tancolored scales on its fronds (Wagner and Wagner 1992).
Reproductive cycles, longevity, specific environmental requirements and limiting factors are unknown (USFWS 1998b).
Historically, Ctenitis squamigera was recorded from Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui, and Hawaii (HINHP Database 2000). It is currently found on Oahu, Lanai, Molokai, and Maui. There is currently a single population with 20 individuals on the island of Molokai in Wawaia Gulch on privately owned land (GDSI 2000; J. Lau, in litt. 2000).
On Molokai, this species is found in mesic forest at an elevation of approximately 865 m (254 ft) (J. Lau, in litt. 2000). Associated native plant taxa include Metrosideros polymorpha, Myrsine lessertiana (kolea), Diospyros sandwicensis, Nestegis sandwicensis, Xylosma hawaiiense (maua), Pouteria sandwicensis, Nephrolepis exaltata (kupukupu), Carex meyenii, Dryopteris unidentata (No common name), and Pleomele auwahiensis (hala pepe) (J. Lau, in litt. 2000; USFWS 1998b; 59 FR 49025).
The primary threats to Ctenitis squamigera are habitat degradation by goats, and competition with the nonnative plant taxa Schinus terebinthifolius and Melinis minutiflora (J. Lau, in litt. 2000; USFWS 1998b; 59 FR 49025).
Cyanea grimesiana ssp. grimesiana (haha)
Cyanea grimesiana ssp. grimesiana, a shortlived perennial member of the bellflower family (Campanulaceae), is a shrub with pinnately divided leaves. This species is distinguished from others in this endemic Hawaiian genus by the pinnately lobed leaf margins and the width of the leaf blades. This subspecies is distinguished from the other two subspecies by the shape and size of the calyx lobes which overlap at the base (Lammers 1999).
Little is known about the life history of this plant. On Molokai, flowering plants have been observed in July and August. Reproductive cycles, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown (USFWS 1999).
Historically and currently, Cyanea grimesiana ssp. grimesiana is known from Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, and Maui (USFWS 1999). On Molokai, it is found in a total of three populations containing eight individuals, in Wailau, Puu Kahea and Olokui NAR on State and privately owned lands (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).
This species is typically found in mesic forest often dominated by Metrosideros polymorpha or Metrosideros polymorpha and Acacia koa (koa), or on cliffs, at elevations between 350 and 945 m (1,150 and 3,100 ft). Associated plants include Psychotria sp., Bobea sp. (ahakea), Antidesma sp., Syzygium sandwicensis, Xylosma sp. (maua), Cibotium sp., Doodia sp. (ohupukupulauii), Nephrolepis sp. (kupukupu), Cyrtandra sp., Dicranopteris linearis, and Freycinetia arborea (HINHP Database 2000).
The threats to this species on Molokai are habitat degradation and/ or destruction caused by axis deer, feral goats, and pigs; competition with various nonnative plants such as Clidemia hirta; catastrophic extinction by randomly naturally occurring events (e.g., fire, landslides) due to the small number of existing individuals; trampling by hikers; seed predation by rats; and predation by various slugs (Milax sp.) (HINHP Database 2000; 61 FR 53108; USFWS 1999). Diellia erecta (no common name)
Diellia erecta, a shortlived perennial member of the spleenwort family (Aspleniaceae), is a fern that grows in tufts of 3 to 9 lance shaped fronds which emerge from a rhizome covered with brown to dark gray scales. This species differs from other members of the genus in having brown or dark gray scales usually more than 2 cm (0.8 in) in length, fused or separate sori along both margins, shiny black midribs that have a hardened surface, and veins that do not usually encircle the sori (Degener and Greenwell 1950; Robinson 1912; Wagner 1952).
Little is known about the life history of this taxon. Reproductive cycles, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown (USFWS 1999).
Historically, Diellia erecta was known from Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui, and Hawaii Island (USFWS 1999). Currently, it is only known from Molokai, Maui, and Hawaii (USFWS 1999). On Molokai, it is known from a total of 4 populations containing at least 10 individuals in Halawa Valley, Kahuaawi Gulch, Makolelau and Onini Gulch on State and privately owned lands (HINHP Database 2000; K. Wood, in litt. 1999).
This species is found in mixed mesic forest and mesic Diospyros sandwicensis (lama) forest between elevations of 210 and 1,490 m (700 and 4,900 ft) (HINHP Database 2000; K. Wood, in litt. 1999). Associated native plant species include Alyxia oliviformis, Metrosideros polymorpha, Bobea sp., C
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT
Paul Henson, Field Supervisor, Pacific Islands Office (see ADDRESSES section) (telephone: 808/5413441; facsimile: 808/5413470).